Arsenal are ready to splash €60 million this summer to land Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, as Mikel Arteta prepares for a major reshuffle in his midfield.
With Jorginho and Thomas Partey expected to leave the Emirates at the end of the season, the Gunners are keen to reinforce their central options.
According to Caught Offside, Arsenal are prepared to trigger the 25-year-old’s release clause to fend off interest from Liverpool, Manchester City, and Real Madrid. The Premier League leaders came close to signing Zubimendi in 2024, but the Spaniard ultimately chose to remain in San Sebastián.
Liverpool are expected to renew their pursuit of the midfielder, but with Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch performing well in deeper roles, Zubimendi may not be their top priority. Manager Arne Slot is reportedly focused on strengthening his defence and attack this summer.
While Arsenal are also in the market for a new striker, they appear to be well-prepared for the transfer window and confident in their ability to close key deals early. That positions them as front-runners for Zubimendi, for two clear reasons.
Firstly, their readiness to activate the release clause could eliminate rival competition quickly.
Secondly, the opportunity to reunite with former teammate Mikel Merino—now thriving in Arsenal’s midfield—may make the Emirates Stadium a more appealing destination for Zubimendi.
As Arsenal prepare for another title challenge and deeper European ambitions, the addition of the Spanish international could add steel, composure, and technical finesse to Arteta’s evolving midfield.